The Inevitable Showdown: Why The Joker is Destined to Defeat Batman

No antagonist has matched the relentless pursuit of Batman quite like the Joker. While other villains may eventually fade or relent, the Joker has demonstrated a unique adaptability, continuously evolving to challenge Batman at every turn. This enduring rivalry suggests that, over time, the Joker may indeed triumph over Batman—a theory supported by numerous narratives in the expansive DC Universe.

As time moves on, so does Batman. After decades of crime-fighting in Gotham, he is facing the inevitable reality of aging. This situation sets the stage for significant developments, such as the quest for a serum aimed at restoring his youth, featured in Detective Comics #1091, crafted by Tom Taylor, Mikel Janín, and Wes Abbott.

Comic book art: Batman holding a glowing red serum

This new “immortality”serum could enhance Batman’s capabilities and extend his protective watch over Gotham City. However, it brings to light a critical yet often overlooked consequence: the Joker may also find a way to achieve eternal life alongside him.

The Joker’s Timelessness: A Symbiotic Relationship

If Batman Continues His Crusade, the Joker Will Persist

Comic book art: The Joker grins as Batman hides in his cape

The Joker’s obsession with Batman is notorious. If Batman successfully halts his aging process, it is reasonable to assume that the Joker would find a similar method for extending his own lifespan, ensuring their battle continues indefinitely. This crucial aspect of their rivalry is overlooked when Batman deliberates on accepting the serum. Although he confides in Superman for advice, he does not consider the Joker’s potential response, demonstrating a misunderstanding of his greatest foe.

Throughout various DC narratives, it consistently appears that the existence of Bruce Wayne as Batman is intrinsically linked to the Joker’s identity as a villain. Two notable stories illustrate this. In Batman: Going Sane by J.M. DeMatteis and Joe Staton, the Joker relinquishes his violent tendencies upon believing he has killed Batman. Similarly, in The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller, the Joker lapses into a catatonic state when Batman retires, only to awaken upon Batman’s return to the spotlight.

With Batman determined never to retire, the only alternative left is his demise.

Both scenarios signify a decisive end to their age-old rivalry. However, by choosing not to retire—as set forth in recent storylines—Batman invites the possibility of his own death. It may seem improbable that the Joker could ultimately defeat Batman, especially considering Batman’s extensive record of victories, yet narratives abound demonstrating that, given sufficient time, the Joker is poised to kill Batman. This theme is not confined to alternate universes; even certain future tales suggest the Joker frequently outlives the Caped Crusader.

A Pattern of Fatality: The Joker’s Victory

Is Batman’s Outcome Predestined?

Comic book panels: Batman takes Sangraal de-aging serum administered by Scarlett

The Batman Who Laughs in the Dark Multiverse, the Joker orchestrates a final assault on Batman that results in the fatalities of many of Batman’s allies, ultimately transforming Batman into a new version of the Joker.

Another poignant example can be found in Catwoman: Lonely City by Cliff Chiang, where a climactic encounter dubbed “Fool’s Night”culminates in Batman’s death. The Joker exploits Batman’s virtuous nature, manipulating him into causing the death of James Gordon, only to kill them both with a bomb vest when Batman seeks vengeance.

The longstanding conflict between Batman and the Joker will conclude in one of two distinct ways: either Batman retires and the Joker responds by stepping back, or the Joker evolves to such an extent that he successfully ends Batman’s life. Given Batman’s recent acquisition of a serum promising eternal youth, his retirement appears increasingly unlikely, sealing his fate—and potentially inviting his own death at the hands of the Joker. It is astonishing that Batman, often characterized as the world’s greatest detective, failed to anticipate his greatest adversary’s potential reactions to this pivotal decision.

The Continuity of Conflict

An Enduring Rivalry

The ongoing consideration of the Joker poses a complex dilemma for Batman. His longstanding refusal to eliminate the Joker creates a dangerous oversight, particularly in light of the Joker’s growing menace. While some may speculate that the Joker will simply age out of the equation, the reality is that numerous timelines, including those in Batman Beyond, illustrate the Joker’s ability to extend his lifespan. With this youth serum, Batman appears to be heading toward an inevitable confrontation with the Joker that might culminate in his own demise.

Detective Comics #1091 is now available through DC Comics!

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